SURFING IN THE OLYMPICS AND OUR TOP 5 MOMENTS

After the completion of the first ever surfing event in the Olympic Games, emotions are still running high with the event coming to a close. So, in light of this historic event, we thought we would do what we think is our Top 5 Olympic Moments. 

1. How can we go past the incredible win of Carissa Moore. The first ever female surfer to win a gold medal. What a special moment. We have spoken to many people about whether they think the Olympics is a higher stage than the WSL and it seems as though the Olympics may have taken over. Being Aussie’s through and through, of course we wanted to see either Sally or Steph bring home the Gold, but Carissa has been on a serious role and with her effortless surfing and kind nature, it couldn’t have gone to a better human. Also for us, Carissa is the best surfer in the world right now.

2. How can we ignore the first ever medal won in surfing? Australian Owen Wright bringing home the Bronze medal for team Australia and making everyone excited for the future of surfing in the Olympics. With a fierce opponent in Gabriel Medina, Owen didn’t step a foot wrong and made us all so proud. 

3. What about the early round knockout of 7 time World Champion Steph Gilmore?! We were not expecting that, especially so early. With her clear experience and graceful talent it turned out that the Olympics is a completely different arena compared to competing on the Championship Tour. You are not competing for just yourself anymore, you are representing your whole country. But Steph took the loss like the true champ she is and we know she will be back better than ever. 

4. Oh, can we talk about the underdog taking charge for a hot second?! Amuro Tsuzuki was on an absolute tear throughout the whole event, knocking out Sally in the Quarter finals and then beating an in-form Caroline Marks in the Bronze Match. What an absolute weapon she is. Her confidence in herself shined throughout every heat and we were so eager to watch every one of her heats.

5. And what about the unforeseen silver medalist, Bianca Buitendag the South African. She was on Tour for 3 years and making appearances for 6, Bianca hasn’t competed in a WSL event since 2019 and were not expecting her to come out of the gates firing. Her fierce backhand attack is one to be reckoned with and her determination throughout the whole event was simply inspiring. And taking it to one of the hottest goofy footers right now, Caroline Marks in the semi final, Bianca looked completely unfazed by her opponent. 

Now…. These are only our top 5 highlights throughout the Olympics, but to be honest, having surfing in the Olympics is the biggest highlight of all. We cannot wait for the next one… Now bring on Mexico for the WSL!!!!